Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has ignited a political firestorm following his appearance on the BBC's Question Time leaders' special, where he made incendiary comments about the National Health Service and the UK's defence expenditure.
During the heated debate, Farage branded the NHS a "disgrace" and argued that the UK's commitment to spending 2.5% of its GDP on defence was an unaffordable "fantasy". His remarks were immediately met with a chorus of disapproval from the studio audience and have since drawn fierce criticism from military figures and the public alike.
Military Backlash and Public Outcry
Former senior military commanders have led the charge against Farage's defence comments. Colonel Richard Kemp, a former commander of British forces in Afghanistan, called the remarks "disgraceful" and accused Farage of "undermining the security of this country".
The backlash extended to social media, where #FarageFury began trending as thousands of users expressed their anger. Many criticised what they perceived as a lack of respect for the armed forces and the cherished institution of the NHS.
A Contentious Exchange on Live Television
The controversy unfolded during a tense exchange on the BBC programme. When challenged by audience members on his party's policies, Farage doubled down on his position, stating: "We are spending £50 billion a year on the NHS. It is a disgrace. It is not value for money."
Regarding defence, he asserted: "We are spending more than 2% on defence. The idea we're going to 2.5% is a fantasy. It is not going to happen." These comments placed him at odds with both the Conservative and Labour parties, who have committed to the 2.5% NATO target.
Questioning Reform UK's Financial Plans
Political opponents were quick to question how Reform UK would fund their proposed policies, which include significant tax cuts. When pressed on the financial mechanics of his plans, Farage struggled to provide detailed answers, leading to further criticism about the viability of his party's manifesto promises.
The incident has raised serious questions about Reform UK's preparedness for government and the mathematical feasibility of their policy platform just weeks before the general election.
